Concordia hosts First Phosphate’s announcement of LFP batteries produced in North America
John Passalacqua (left) and Karim Zaghib (right) holding First Phosphate’s North American-made LFP batteries.
Concordia University recently served as the backdrop for a significant announcement about the future of green technology in Quebec. First Phosphate, a rapidly growing Quebec-based company, chose the third international Conference on Olivines for Rechargeable Batteries (OREBA 3)—held at Concordia from July 6 to 8—to unveil the first lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery cell made entirely from North American critical and strategic minerals.
By using phosphoric acid and iron from Bégin-Lamarche in Quebec’s Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region, graphite from Nouveau Monde Graphite in Quebec and lithium from Nevada, the production process of this LFP battery reduces reliance on imports through a domestic supply chain and promotes environmentally responsible practices. Currently, most battery technologies source their materials—and the majority of manufacturing—from China, which creates challenges related to supply chain security, environmental impact and strategic independence.
John Passalacqua, CEO of First Phosphate, underscored the importance of building a local and sustainable supply chain. “What we achieved here is possible in so many fields, not just batteries. We want to show young people that they have a place here in Quebec, and that they don’t need to move abroad to do great things,” he said.
The decision to make the announcement at Concordia was deliberate. “The DNA of this battery comes from right here, within the walls of Concordia and Hydro-Québec,” said David Dufour, Executive Vice-President of First Phosphate.
In addition to showcasing this technological breakthrough, the company also aimed to highlight the importance of collaborations with research institutions and to inspire the next generation of students.
For Concordia students, the announcement signals concrete opportunities. First Phosphate expects to offer internships as early as 2026 and encourages students to follow the company’s updates for these future roles. Interested individuals can visit First Phosphate’s website or stay connected through Volt-Age's LinkedIn page to keep up with the latest news.